The Denver Nuggets are finalizing a trade for Jonas Valanciunas, a move that could determine whether the veteran center stays in the NBA or heads to Europe.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Denver is set to acquire Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings on Sunday in exchange for Dario Saric. The deal gives the Nuggets contractual control over the Lithuanian big man, effectively holding the key to his immediate future.
Valanciunas, 33, met with officials from Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos earlier this weekend as he considers a lucrative three-year offer from the EuroLeague club. The proposed deal is worth close to €12 million, making it one of the most attractive contracts in European basketball.
Panathinaikos are eager to bring Valanciunas to Athens to bolster their frontcourt in their bid to dethrone Olympiacos atop the EuroLeague. The club finished third in the regular season and sees the center as a cornerstone of their playoff push.
However, Valanciunas cannot sign with Panathinaikos unless Denver releases him from his NBA contract. Unlike Sasha Vezenkov last summer — who was allowed to leave the NBA after Toronto acquired him — Denver is reportedly intent on keeping Valanciunas as Nikola Jokic’s backup.
Valanciunas has played 12 seasons in the NBA, averaging 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Last year, he split time between the Washington Wizards and the Kings, posting 8.7 points and 7.0 rebounds in a reserve role.
Despite his reduced minutes in recent seasons, Valanciunas remains a highly effective rebounder and interior presence. Denver sees him as an ideal veteran to fortify their bench unit as they continue competing in the Western Conference.
Panathinaikos, meanwhile, hopes Valanciunas prioritizes a starring role in Europe over a limited role on an NBA contender. The decision ultimately rests with him, but the Nuggets hold the contractual right to either keep him or grant him the necessary clearance to leave.
The trade between Denver and Sacramento is expected to be completed Sunday, after which Valanciunas is likely to make a final decision.
